There are some guys who you just know are future coaches in the NFL while they are still playing.
Jerod Mayo was one of those guys.
That’s why when Mayo was brought onto the coaching staff as linebackers coach in 2019, it wasn’t all that surprising to those who watched him as a player in his eight seasons with the New England Patriots.
Mayo, who has appeared to be splitting defensive coordinator duties with Steve Belichick, admitted that he has goals to be a head coach in the league someday.
“I definitely have aspirations to be a head coach,” Mayo said Wednesday. “I’m really focused on this team. We have a great coach here in New England, but that is the goal. I think I could do it. Well, I should say I know I could do it. I’m just waiting for my chance.”
"I definitely have aspirations to be a head coach… we have a great coach here in New England, but that is the goal."
I guess we can officially rule out a Quick Slants co-hosting reunion with @tomecurran 😢 pic.twitter.com/OyIp5OAhvO
— NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSBoston) August 4, 2021
Mayo’s energy, experience, and knowledge of the game make him a perfect candidate for a team looking for a new leader. Despite only coaching for two seasons, Mayo was interviewed by the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason for their open head coach position before they hired Nick Sirianni.
Nothing sums up Mayo quite like this quote from Devin McCourty after the linebacker’s injury in 2015.
“Mayo is kind of the heart and soul of not just the defense, but really the team,” McCourty said. “He gets everybody going. Being able to watch him, he’s a special leader; energy level is always high.”
Those are the traits that tell a fanbase that a player has what it takes to take that next step. Mayo’s next step from his current position will likely be as a head coach, and he deserves to achieve that goal.
